GET BIDDING NOW

The Willow Foundation and British artist, Julie-Anne Gilburt have teamed up to create an exhibition of 20x20 cm canvases, each created by a different star. Well known faces from the worlds of sport, art, design, fashion, music and entertainment have drawn on their artistic skills in aid of the charity. The result is a fun, colourful and enlightening exhibition at the Catto Gallery, Hampstead, which will be open to the public from 2 to 5 December 2010 and an online auction running from 26 November to 6 December.

The Online AuctionOpened 26 November 2010
Closes 6 December 2010

More than 300 canvases are being sold online through our eBay auction, which is open now, with bidding closing on 6 December 2010.

CLICK ON THE CATEGORIES BELOW TO SEE THE HUNDREDS OF CANVASES UP FOR GRABS.

Get bidding from now to buy some unique and unusual Christmas presents. You'll find bid now links in all the categories listed below.

Please note: when you register, your details will be held on our database in accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). We will not disclose or share personal information supplied by you, with any third-party organisation without your consent. From time to time we may contact you to keep you informed about the Willow Foundation's progress and activities.

The Public Exhibition
2 - 5 December
Catto Gallery, 100 Heath Street, Hampstead, London NW3 1DP
www.catto.co.uk

Exhibition opening times:
Thu 2 Dec: 3pm - 6pm • Fri 3 & Sat 4 Dec: 10am - 6pm • Sun 5 Dec: 12.30pm - 6pm

Stars on Canvas is a fundraising event in aid of the Willow Foundation (registered charity no. 1106746). 80% of proceeds from the auction will go to the charity. 20% of proceeds will go to artist Julie-Anne Gilburt.

All canvases have been donated by artists in support of the Willow Foundation. Each was asked to submit an example of their work on a small 20cmx20cm canvas which would be sold at auction to raise money for the charity. The images are therefore a personal expression of the individual artist's style and creativity. In the event that the canvases are not claimed within 28 days of the 5 December 2010, the canvases will not pass to the winner and will remain vested in the Willow Foundation.

With thanks to those who have provided complimentary goods or services for Stars on Canvas 2010 - Catto Gallery, Clarkes Stationers, Mitsubishi Pencil Co UK Ltd.

VIEW ART CANVASES including pictures by Dan Baldwin (left), Jamie McCartney (centre), Tracey Emin (right), Richard Long, David Hensel, William de Wilde, Rosie Birtwhistle, Michael Gage and many more ...

VIEW CHEF'S CANVASES including pictures by Jane Asher (left), Jamie Oliver (centre), Ken Hom (right), Phil Vickery and Ken Hom.

VIEW CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATIONS including SpongeBob Squarepants by Stephen Hillenburg (left), Bob the Builder by Keith Chapman (centre), Bananaman by Gordan Tait and Nigel Parkinson (right), Angelina Ballerina by Helen Craig, Jacob the Cat by Nick Sharratt and Dame Jaqueline Wilson and many more ...

VIEW FASHION CANVASES including pictures by Zandra Rhodes (left), Nicole Farhi (centre), David Shepherd (right), B.L., Holly Fulton, Peter Jensen and Vanessa Lewis

VIEW FILM CANVASES including pictures by John Hurt (left), Jude Law (centre), Bob Hoskins (right), Patrick Bergin, Mike Leigh and more ...

VIEW ILLUSTRATIONS including pictures by Morten Moreland (left), Giles Andreae (Edward Monkton) (centre), Neil Bennett (right), Neil Kerber, Simone Lia and many more ...

VIEW MUSIC CANVASES including pictures by Stereophonics (left), Cat Stevens (centre), Razorlight (right), Tony Hadley, Roger Daltrey, Blur, David Essex, Fun Lovin' Criminals, The Saturdays and many more ...

VIEW SPORT CANVASES including pictures by Michael Vaughan (left), Steven Gerrard (centre), Wayne Rooney (right), Jermain Defoe, Lee Dixon, Bernard Gallagher and many more ...

VIEW TV AND POPULAR CULTURE CANVASES including pictures by Ricky Gervais (left), Joanna Lumley (centre), Dawn French (right), Rob Brydon, David Tennant, Stephen Fry, Frank Skinner and many more ...

VIEW ALL STARS: All Stars is a canvas that was created by Julie-Anne Gilburt after the 2008 Stars on Canvas exhibition. It incorporates images of the majority of the canvases that featured in the initial exhibition.

Stars on Canavs souvenir programme

BUY NOW

£3.00 plus £1 p&p

But the official Stars on Canvas 2010 exhibition programme. This 20cm x 20cm programme features many of the canvases in the exhibition. The perfect stocking filler this Christmas!

Remember, you will be able to link to the eBay auction for all the canvases from 26 November.
To register your interest and receive a notification prior to the eBay auction going live, please email your name to starsoncanvas@willowfoundation.org.uk

Glitter and SParkle

Well Christmas season has already begun. The first of the parties and hangovers are in full swing. I should know better at my age. But those bubbles that taste so nice going down, still pack a wallop. The weather in the south has been rather cold. But the crisp blue skies are worth it. No rain or snow to be seen as of yet.

I have a show in London along side Tracy Emin!! It is on Thursday at the Catto gallery in Hampstead. Will take loads of photos and share them on here as usual. It is for the Willow Foundation, Which provides terminally ill young adults a day out of their choice. It is a great charily and started by Bob Wilson and his wife , who lost their daughter some years ago.

There is 300 plus canvases available by celebrities of the Art, film, music and tv industries. Last time I was able to get some great pieces for myself. It is a one off and great opportunity to acquire a great piece of art by your favourite celeb.

They WILL deliver internationally, just get price from the seller.. x

I have to rummage through my closet for something to wear. Might stick with the little back dress and boots as it is rather cold.

This is the latest animal commission I have done .. Tintin oil on linen.

A pleasure to do.

I have also been doing more poppies.. they seem to be very popular.

x k

Autumn is upon us

Wow what a roller coaster things have been lately. Every day there seems to be something that needs to be done or sorted. This last weekend saw me attend the lovely Goodwood Revival. It is a lovely event that sees everyone dress up in their chosen era. I chose the 50's this year. It certainly did not disappoint. There was a circus theme this year which consisted of a bearded lady, small people or midgets as some choose to say.... and rides etc.. All props and costumes retained the old feel with the circus as well. One cannot begin to capture the smell and noise of the old cars racing around the track or revving in the paddocks. But I have taken a rather large number of photos, of which I will load up to a site and post the link here. I met the lovely Murray Walker and had a great chat with him. I was also lucky enough to indulge in a few bottles of Champagne, all the while people watching.. I cant wait til next year now!! Hmmmmm what to wear?

On another note.. I have a an arts and crafts fayre to organise bits for in the village. Will take some photos when I get a bit more together. Seems all this socializing I have been doing is affecting my painting! haha Oh well.. I have the winter for that.

xx

Summer winding down

Well I arrived at our house in southwest France at the beginning of August. What would seem like a like a rather comfortable drive turned into a bit of a jaunt as the DVD players in the car packed up! So I had to endure the usual 'are we there yet?' and ' I am hungry and I need to pee'.
Then there was the bickering about what was playing on the ipods.. Not to mentin we had decided to bring the dog, and he it turns out, was the easiest of the lot! When we arrived, all was lovely. Until that is, night fell. Then it seems every creature and their kin had decided to take up under our floor boards. I couldnt help but think of Ratatoule and that poor woman shooting her house up. After a few days of our noisy selfs, it seems they have taken up else where and moved on. I am sure Hopscotch, our dog has had something to do with it as well. My belly seems to have grown portly with all the lovely brioche and wine I have been comsuming. They also do fantastic pizza. Thankgod I am not one for the atkins diet, or any diet for that matter. I always remember my Nan telling me to do everything in moderation, and that it seems is what I do.

Our initial shock at seeing how much the garden had grown was quickly wiped away by the warmth of the sun. When it is warm here it really is warm. With an over abundance of lakes, trees and mountains on our doorstep, there really is lots to see and do. We spent a lot of time going to the Lac de Vassevire, which is just up the road. I have even grown used the sight of budgey hammocks as I lay on my towel. Its so peaceful here and reminds my so much of the 70's growing up in Canada. I have probably said all this before but it really is so. There is so much more space than the Uk as well. Part of me wants to take to living here full time and throw myself into Art and not talk to anyone for years. Just create.. but I would miss my friends too much. I also love London and Brighton and all they have to offer.

It has been a challege cooking on electric again.. I have grown accustomed to cooking immediately and adjusting the temp accordingly.. I had forgotten you had to turn on the element then wait for an hour for it to heat up to cook on... ok I may be exaggerating a bit but it seems like it. I cant wait til the AGA goes in. Then I can just stick a dish in and let it casserole away haha..

One thing I have to say that I have realised, is that we in the UK need to recycle more. Not just food and toiletries but items that we use like televisions. Just because they have plasma and the bloke up the road has one, do we really need one? What is wrongwith the old one? It still works, right? It takes me to the HD thing. Now I know if you go into a shop the guy will give you a huge speel about how much better it is and so much more clarity and detail... well I just cant see it.. I get the same effect if i put on my glasses. I remember technicolour, still my favourite to this day.

Right must go and get caught up on things.

xx

PS: This flower is in my garden. I just love the contrast of it agaist the wall.

Goodwood

Hello my lovelies!

Well anyone that knows me knows that I love all things cars. So when I was asked to show a few paintings at the Goodwood Vintage, I was chuffed to bits. I thought I would drive yesterday as the kids would be finished school this week and I wasn't a fan of hearing bickering in the back seat. I took the route along the downs through Amberley and Slindon. What a lovely route it was. The landscape was amazing and I could have pictured myself during Medieval times on horseback. Its not a long journey from my house at all and was there within the hour. As you pull into the grounds you can see Goodwood house in the distance. Scattered about is a porta cabin here and there, where they are getting ready for the festival. I find a little car park beside the house and proceed to walk to the entrance. It truly is awe inspiring. I turn to look back at the grounds and try to think of what it must have been like to reside there without all the cars and modernity's... As I walk along looking rather lost a man taps the window and smiles at me. He looks as though he stepped out of time in his full attire. He guides me in. I am now standing in this magnificent ballroom, and I cant help but feel the SHINING vibe. I glance around as if almost hoping to see Jack Nicholson sitting at the bar. But NO. hehe .. I am led up to a reception area. On the walls I notice the most amazing works of art. I am drawn to what seems to be a ROHKO. I finally make it to the reception area and soon realise I am in the wrong bit. The lovely lady then tells me where to go. But being so overwhelmed in my surroundings my head goes completely like vacant cavern.. So she humours me and so kindly draws me a map on where to go. hehe I go back out and drive about the grounds. passing on the way, older man speeders, on the vacant roads. I finally get to where I need to be. I have to say it must be a fantastic place to work. Everyone I came across was so happy. SO if any of you are in the area and are going to Vintage, please check out all the galleries of Art.

ART AT VINTAGE - Curated by Ellie Arnold

ALL ABOARD!

We’ve hardly been able to contain ourselves, but it’s official:

MICK JONES’s ROCK & ROLL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Vintage at Goodwood is proud to present for the first time ever THE ROCK & ROLL PUBLIC LIBRARY aboard the show-stopping PETER BLAKE CCA ART BUS at this year’s inaugural festival at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, August 13-15. The Clash guitarist and joint frontman’s rarely-seen personal archive and collection of rock memorabilia will feature on an original 1980s double-decker redesigned by Sir Peter Blake in his signature pop art style.

In true Vintage spirit, the on-site art experience will combine music, fashion and design all curated under one beautiful (mobile) roof, fulfilling Mick Jones’s ambition to house THE ROCK & ROLL PUBLIC LIBRARY on a touring bus. Jones’ library previously launched at Ladbroke Grove Underground in July 2009.

Mick Jones, former lead guitarist and vocalist for The Clash said:

“Peter Blake was The One when we were at art school - he's the father of British Pop Art. It's an honour to have my Library on his bus...I'm looking forward to a mobile celebration of our collective cultural memory. That's history.“

Sir Peter Blake, iconic British pop artist added: “Since launching the Art Bus in May 2009, I’ve found it provides the perfect location for any artist to display his or her work in a quirky and intimate setting . We’re honored to partner with Mick Jones at the Vintage at Goodwood festival and look forward to showcase his collection of rock star memorabilia. Look out for spontaneous performances to take place from the bus’ upper deck balcony while videos and records will be played all day and night downstairs!”

Wayne Hemingway, co-founder of Vintage at Goodwood said: “We are honoured to feature two of my cultural heroes at Vintage at Goodwood. As a collector of cultural memorabilia myself I am personally excited by Mick Jones’ illustrious rock archive and being able to view it a top Sir Peter Blake’s brilliant art bus is pretty cool; Vintage is a perfect fit for these two iconic British artists to feature at what we believe will be the best summer festival in Britain. (Well it better had be after all the work we have put into it!) Mick Jones and Sir Peter Blake truly encompass the best of British in the arts and music world and their contributions to past and future musicians will be recognized at Vintage at Goodwood.”

POP GOES THE EASEL!

Inspired by the bohemian high jinks of yesteryear, we will be hosting a 60s art school, where you can get in tune with your creative side, attend a masterclass, or drop in on artists, musicians and designers in converstation about their misspent youth...

MANNEQUINS ON PARADE

Our heroes from the worlds of music, art, design and fashion will be customising dummies for VINTAGE - all to raise funds for Oxfam, our charity partner. Coming soon to a thrift store near you, the mannequins will be reunited at Goodwood for a shop window display the likes of which you’ve never seen before.

karen xx

Intentions

Let me start by sharing my dream last night with you. I was younger than I am now, not by much but was a teenager... ;) I was playing in a field with a friend. We were jumping off of hay bales into tall meadow grass with wild flowers. Not sure how long the hay bales had been there or why they were there but it looked as though someone had tried to construct a house and had given up. The sun was just about to go down and everything had a soft glow to it. I could here the foxes playing and owls beginning to emerge. We decided we had better wander home as we were getting hungry. Along the way we found a large mirrored disco ball discarded by the side of the road. We thought how lovely it would look hanging from our tree in the back garden. So we went about trying to dislodge it. It slowly came free and began to roll towards our house. Now when I say our house, I have no idea who I was with but I knew we were related somehow and that we lived in the same house.. No sooner had we got it into the house and in the back garden, did the doorbell ring. I went to get the door and it was an old man. I had recognised him as William Burroughs. He reached into his bag he had slung across his body and pulled out a camera. I was slightly relieved it wasn't a gun..... 'Here', he said 'I have something for you, it belongs to you' I reached my hand out and felt the weight of the camera. Black with a silver edge and older looking, but unmistakeably belonging to me. I looked up at him and smiled. He gave me a crooked smile in return and closed his bag. I began flipping the camera around in my hand, lost in its marvel. When I looked up Mr Burroughs had gone. I shut the door..


HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

perhaps I am meant to be taking photos instead of painting...


I have started reading 'Junkie ' so that is why perhaps he is at the forefront of my mind.

Tomorrow I need to tackle a marathon of painting. Here's to hoping my mojo is on top form.

I have download the new Eminem album so will let you know what I think of it, with out using naughty words... well maybe one or two...

One of my children got into trouble for squirting a joke camera at a teacher. Even after saying sorry and writing an apology, it was seemed not good enough.. Now I can see if it was done with intent and malicious but this was all in jest and for this particular teacher to have been sprayed, they must have thought her 'in the gang' . A detention was issued. pththththth big dislike!

The lovely Charles Runcie who bought my poppy painting is having it framed. I cant wait to see it all finished. They always look so much better with the right packaging and in situ.

Not long til we head out to France! Very excited to be able to chill and enjoy the sun, drink wine, paint, swim, ..... *sigh*

Karen out xx

ramblings

Thought I would get typing a bit while my house is quiet. Having just dropped of my mate to the airport to go back to Australia, I am due another lot on Tuesday. PHEW. I have been battling this lovely cough as well. I swear in the last three weeks I have coughed up another human being. WOW! I have never known such a thing. I never get a chesty cough either. I figure if you could bottle it, it would give the people from Superglue a run for their money.

After the sale of Cadburys to Kraft, I see Tate and Lyle is now to be sold as well. AGH!! But on a positive note, I see BBC is keeping the radio station 6 music. :)


This week I have been boxing up paintings and getting them to their new owners. All ready for another batch. I am taking a hiatus this summer from shows as I need to get caught up on the commissions! I am so lucky! Love you all for it , how lucky am I that I get to do what makes me smile xx

This week I will be having 13, 13year olds in my house for my daughters 13th birthday. I cant believe she is now in the teen years! Makes you reflect over the years , how really quickly they have gone. She is getting a lovely set of braces on in September! haha she is going to love me!

I am sitting here admiring my lovely foot with its puncture marks on.... three in a row......YES I dropped a fork on my foot and it landed straight up... Looks ludicrous and only I could have done such a thing!

Wimbledon was fantastic this year! We should really be proud of Andy Murray for trying so hard against Nadal..... I wont be saying anything about the footie except they should have a camera at the goal.

I keep forgetting to go strawberry picking! AGH!! The one I used to go to is no longer there and I keep getting side tracked. I do have a few in the garden but seriously not enough for all. Wonder if I still have enough time?

Why of why do they resurface roads they way they do here? I am surrounded by this at the moment in Henfield. I now have a chip in my windscreen and I am sure countless marks on my paint job. No one ever goes the recommended 20 mph. Unless they are 100. GRRRRRR.
Actually I have to say, the pensioners around here I have decided see 60 as 30.... That's all I am saying.

Oh yes I went the Hard Rock Calling Festival! Fab time. Think next time though I might go to a smaller one.. just getting too big.. Cant see anything and get crushed in the meantime!

xx

June

photo taken by Nic (just had to share it!)

Well I do see it has been a while since my last post, which could only mean one thing......I have been busy as a bee.
I have had my brother and his girlfriend over from Canada for a visit. It was fab and I showed them Brighton. The weather was fantastic as well. Wait I already said this before in my other post... LOSING IT!
I have also been rather scatty brained as well. ( as you have just seen) Not sure if it the sign of whats to come but I will just go with it for now. Here is an example. .........I go upstairs and see someone has put dirty clothes in the loo. After quizzing the children I go about my usual business.. Then it happens again...only I caught the culprit mid act....ME.. You see the laundry hamper is right near the toilet and I have had a lot on my mind.... silly sod!!

I also have had a friend over from Australia and we have been catching up.

This last week saw the Henfield garden and arts in my garden as one of the venues. I had lots to get into order.. I am pleased to say it was a success and 6 paintings over all were sold.. Chuffed to bits really. Not sure when the next event will be yet.. Might take a breather from it next year and exhibit in someone Else's garden for a change... that would be lovely!

I seem to have developed this awful cough.. No cold just this mucus that is like glue in my lungs. It has been going about the village.. I have made this mixture of onions, garlic and ginger and oregano.. so warning not to come around me for a while! Hopefully this will work. I may be grabbing at straws but am willing to give anything a go at this time!

I will be going tot he Hard Rock Calling festival at Hyde Park soon.. Should be a great time. Cant wait.

My house is starting to look like a furniture shop with all things ready for us to take to France. I have stubbed toes and tripped on countless things.

Has anyone else thought they were about to be attacked by a swarm of bees from the sound of the south African horn? I would spell the name but last time I called it a vulva so will refrain form that! haha

Cheerio for now

Oh and BP you need to clean up your act there rather quickly... oh and Obama who so aptly names it as BRITISH PETROLEUM I guess forgets that the US owns 39% of the company..hmmmmmmmmmmmm

Sun and sand...

Well I have been super busy as of late. Mostly enjoying the lovely weather and pottering about finishing a few commissions. I Have my garden open again this year for the local Gardens and Arts. I have to say I have been somewhat rather slack on the garden front. HAHA. But it looks lovely still. The wisteria on the front of the house is in full bloom and looks breathtaking. Even the Clematis and roses are starting too. I have had my brother and his girlfriend over from Canada for a visit. It has been great seeing the UK through their eyes. You realise you take a lot of things for granted really. I took them to the local beach and we sat there and all got burnt, as you do.. I curse my factor 50 for not getting itself perfectly even on my body.. haha. We have had some great barbeque's as well, just hope this weather lasts a bit longer!

On another note, I am painting another Stag. I also have a few more cockerels to complete and my bluebell woods. I suppose I had better get cracking really as I only have three more weeks. But who can turn down such lovely weather?

kxx

Eye Bogies

Right I have to ask this, how long is the right time to leave before you tell someone they have eye bogies? Now if it is a good friend, I of course will tell them almost immediately. But what if I myself dont notice right away, then half way through the conversation it dawns on me they are there in their full glory. I cant tell them now or they will think I have been staring at them the whole time so will feel like a tit. I mean how many times have you come home and looked in the mirror to half your lunch around your chops? Bearing in mind you have been to the bank, shops and school and not one single person told you about it! haha It reminds me of the time when I walked my daughter to school. You see I use a tumble dryer rather than hang things out on a line to dry. Mainly because I have hay fever and am a lazy cow. Anyway, I had washed and dried this particular load of blacks. I pull out my cardigan in quick fashion as I was late to get to the school. I suddenly have this tap on my shoulder and its my neighbour telling me she could see something swinging behind me all the way to school. I of course was now in the playground in full view of everyone. On my back swinging was my black lacy bra! hooked on my cardi! haha see what I mean..

Anyway not to change subject but, I have finished a lovely poppy fields painting and started my online shop live finally. I am pleased so far at what there is on offer and hope to get a few more things up as soon as possible. I too have ordered a few bits. Having my image on a watch is pretty cool and I am chuffed to bits about it. Tell all your friends!

Oh here is the link to it. click on the hearts ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Competition

I have decided I am going to raffle off one of my canvas tote bags with my skull/hummingbird on.

To enter please go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Burt/47230364465?ref=ts

join and leave a comment. It will be on for a week. I will get my daughter to pull the winner out of a hat. Open to worldwide. Just a bit of fun to liven things up!

haha

Happy painting xx

Ask me....

Go on and ask me a question.. click this

Insomnia

My mind has been having a field day at night again. Its funny what is so trivial in the day is a mountain at night. It has been hard for me to focus lately, might be because the kids have been off of school and I keep getting sidetracked. I have a few visitors coming this spring so trying to think ahead of what I will need. Also is our French home which needs a few more bits to kit it out. Thinking about taking the piano there as would get more time to tinker. See what I mean about trivial...... Also I have opened our garden this year for the gardens and arts, so I am doing a mental list of what I need to organise. Like who I would like to have exhibit their work. I already have confirmed a few and have tackled the start of the garden. Which I must say is looking rather lovely. Except for my pots that have caught the frost this year. Bloody things, they were supposed to have been frost proof. I awoke this morning wishing I was ten. Life was so much easier then. Before 'divorce' . All I would have to worry about was homework, *sigh*......My daughter had a sleepover last night.... I could hear them giggling, it was lovely and reminded me of sleep overs at my friends house next door in her basement. Singing ABBA into a hairbrush.........Naivety ..........phoning random people and telling them jokes before hanging up on them, like, is your fridge running? better go and catch it then..... but that was before caller id.. But this was a time when you used to let your kids out to play and wander about. I remember going down to a large pond with my brother and pretending to be Huckleberry Finn. we made a raft and explored trees. We were gone hours! Without the need for computers or phones.... Is there still a world like this? Do people actually communicate in the flesh anymore? haha as I type this on my laptop.....twat! haha.



Anyway I thought I might share a drunken photo of me scaling the train wall in London when I went with the girls a couple of weeks ago. It had to be done. We all had a bash and I was captured. I still have some rebellion in me yet. Of course I do! Speaking of which poor MALCOLM MACLAREN. RIP. x


x
Have a great day and try and live in the moment.

winding paths

When someone said years ago to me that Geminis have two sides, I was quick to dismiss. But now as I am older I believe they do, or at least me. I seem to live two lives. One in my head and the other in real life. In my head the world is a better place and I am content. I am doing what I want and crave. It seems so easy and obtainable, pure bliss. But am I dreaming about this Utopia all too much and not living in the now? Perhaps a bit of both. I have always fought the Nomadic me. It has been so hard to have stayed in one place for so long. Some times I struggle so hard not to 'move on' . It is a test of my strength and I must endure this to get to the next stage. Of course I am talking of Parenthood. It was a late decision but I am thankful for them, when they are not bickering...... But when my time is finished rearing them, I shall drift again.....

I find my self reflecting today. Tomorrow will be different I am sure. My mind is awash with ideas, words and images that seem to be like a giant puzzle. (I have yet to find the corner pieces) But I will I am sure of it. I am a stubborn soul and will not give in.

For now I stay on the road, just glancing out of the corner of my eye the little lanes forking off.

Ok this is probably not making any sense to you what so ever... but I get it..perhaps one day you will as well.

xx

NUTS

Well today of all Easter days has been adventurous. This morning started with an Easter egg hunt around the garden and the unveiling of the easter baskets.. The afternoon consisted of children bouncing off the walls and me with a tooth ache and belly ache. haha serves me right.

I watched the Grand Prix this am. I still cant help but think something is missing with this not refueling lark. I mean come on, now they are trying to drum up entertainment from wheel nuts. Really! Gone are the days of hoses getting stuck in the cars in the pit stops and setting cars and men alight. Also , another thing I have noticed is the slow speed some are doing. Well when I say slow, I don't mean in regards to what you and I would do on a normal road, I am talking track speed. They are trying to save fuel as they cant stop so aren't going as fast nor over taking as much. Of course I still love to watch it, but there is something missing. That all I am saying.

I have got my Goodwood revival outfit already for this year. Its a 50's swing dress. I shall be armed with my camera to take loads of pics of all the old cars. I cant wait.

Muah x

SHINING

Today I have awoken to the blazing of the sun. At first I was not sure it was real as it has been so elusive as of late. haha. Can this be the start of Spring? I can hear the birds doing their Dawn Chorus........nice.

Today I tried to explain politics to my 7 year old. After a lengthy discussion she turns to me and says.. " Well I just hope that MR Westminster doesnt get in.." haha My job is done.. I tell you I should have been a teacher. haha.. Kids would be walking around thinking babies come out of a magic button that the doctor puts on you in hospital and the Easter Bunny would be King of all Bunnies living in Narnia. *sigh* Wish I was 7................

I have added a Tree trunk to the painting as you see.. Next is a mouse... any other suggestions are welcomed..

The kids are off school now for Easter. I am all stocked up and have managed to not eat the supplies.. PHEW> I cant wait to Paint today. I have a few puppies to paint and a couple of kitty cats.. Not to mention a cockeral I have started as well. Lots of events coming up soon so I need to crack on and get a little bit organised!

Well must love you and leave you.
xx

WILMA

This is little Wilma that I have been working on. She is a Lahsa-poo. Very sweet and full of gusto! She has been a treat to paint. Oil on canvas by the way..

Anyway, I am back from a girlie weekend away in London. We conquered Covent Garden and gave the Rikshaw boys a run for their money. Haha.. The only problem is, I have returned exhausted and need a holiday just to recoop!

We all enjoyed the sauna and pool and the lush food feast that seemed to be everywhere. I most likely have put on a few pounds but it was well worth it!

The weather is not too special today and I cant wait for sun! So where is it I ask?

The kids will soon be off for Easter! mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm which means more choccy for me to pilfer!

HAPPY EASTER

well must dash
xx

CLocks go forward.........

Well for all you Brits, just a gentle reminder that our clocks jump forward this weekend. I wouldnt mind normally but this weekend I am off on a girlie weekend in London. So we actually lose an hour!! AGH!

Here is the painting I have been working on , lots to do but you get the drift of things.

Easter is soon upon us, and that means lots of belly aches for me while I pilfer my childrens easter baskets.. This year is even worse as I have started early and hoarded treats for their baskets.. And already the stash is slowly diminishing! Oh and YES I still use easter baskets.. I refuse to buy the over packaged eggs, that when you open them they crumble to nothing as they are so thin. So I fill theirs with many different bits and bobs. x

PS. as I write this I have worked my way through a mini eggs bag, Cadburys of course.

Well must dash.

will post a pic soon of the doggie I am working on
xx

chitty chat chat

Sometimes when wee ones rattle on, you tend to tune out. Especially if its a wee boy in question. Today however, Maia said something quite funny. Walking by the tin opener she paused. Then she turned and said ' who invented the tin opener? Was is Frankenstein?' I immediately knew what she meant. She meant Einnstein. However he didnt invent it either, I am sure. Haha , I would just like to know what her world must be like. With Frankenstein inventing tin openers and Dracula inventing the phone, who is there about to scare everyone?

Today I stared a new painting. Its of a Blythe doll and for a special someone. I havent painted dolls in years, so its been an interesting day. Here is what I have done so far.



After yesterdays lovely sun, I was all geared up for some today.. The morning was a bit hazy but I waited all day for the sun to break through.... it didnt :(

Oh yes mothers day just passed here. I was served a lovely breakfast in bed. There was toast, fruit, coffee and a box of chocolates. Guess which one I scoffed!! YES, you guessed right. I ate the whole Cadburys box and felt sick for the rest of the day.. But I ask you, What would you have chosen? It just kept staring at me in the face!

I feel really good that I got cracking in the studio today.. I swear my body clock is still in a different time zone. I still, after all these years tend to be a night owl. But somewhere in the world I am a morning person. haha That is what I tell myself anyway.

Well best be rolling........

Happy painting.....xx

WW2

I have been in the sudio today trying to get caught up in all my paintings.. But I seem to be going backwards rather than forwards haha.. I think I need a couple of late nights on the attack.
I am not sure where the time goes but it seems to be speeding up I swear.

This week has been the most lovley , with all the flowers looking like they might actually bud at long last. It seems as though this has been the longest of winters ever.

My daughter is studying WW2 at school We have managed to find for her to take in a remnant of german bomb, and old metal matchbox and a tiddlywinks game.

I am sure she won the show and tell this week haha.

I havent got anything funny and witty to share today.. My head is all full of turps and my belly is grumbling. SO off I dash to get myself a cuppa.

Will try and write some things this evening..


kxx

Crusty Crab

How rude of me. I had forgotten to put my little dining experience adventure on here.

Well I have just returned from my fine dining experience at the CRUSTY CRAB. (in Lennon's bedroom)

I was greeted at the door and asked if I was alone? Well of course I was! The first

thing I noticed was the lovely mood lighting set with car light donning the walls. Then for entertainment in the corner I could just make out Power Rangers on the TV. I was ushered to my table, with which sat a lovely girl already. Her name was Aria and she had been accosted from the bedroom next door. We were then offered a menu from the lovely Maia, who looked very familiar to me. ;) On the menu, was a choice of Crabby Patties, small, double or Monster. There was also a salad, fries, soda and hot chocolate. I chose the double Crabby Patty with a side salad and soda. Shortly later, I was approached by whom I was told was the owner of this establishment. His name was Lennon. He was wearing full chef outfit and kind of reminded me of a young Gordon Ramsay, without the abuse of course. He told me my dinner was on the house. I was most impressed. My dinner arrived on a lovely tray that looked very much like a book I had read to my children. ;) I bantered back and forth with my companion at the table and we both agreed it was a lovely place. When it was time to leave we were even given a sticker that was shiny on our shirts. I think the place deserves 5 Michelin stars for sure! Will definitely be going back there. kxx

RATM

when Rage Against the Machine stated they were going to hold a free concert for making them Christmas number one, I was quite eager to get my hands on a ticket. When they announced you had to register first hand and then load a photo for approval, I did so. I received my number to put into the site when the tickets were released. So that morning, I waited and set my alarm to not miss out. Which, if anyone knows me its easy, as I am easily distracted! I logged in to the site and noticed it kept on crashing. I opened a few different browsers and waited......waited...... 25 minutes after the said time I was in. Bearing in mind I was doing other things at the same time and the fact that I had even noticed it had gone to the other page was amazing. Anyway, I put my number in , but then noticed there was a slot for another number. Then it dawned on me, every single ticket had to have a photo on. Not, two people going in on one ticket like I had assumed. Bugger! I would have no time what so ever to upload another photo and get that approved. So now I have a solo ticket for me! I am sure if I read the small print I would have noticed, haha. I am now on the quest to find any others that may have gotten a ticket. If not then I will be going solo! AGH! Serves me right for rushing into things again.

I am about to go into the studio and get tucked into a few more paintings. Which reminds me I have no ink left in my printer. Why do they make them so small? Such a nuisance really.

I see the Killer whale in Florida has yet again killed a person. So why do they insist on keeping them in captivity? It brings me back to the pet owners that think their pet wont hurt anyone. How do they know? You cant read people so why does it seem different with animals?

Well my turps are calling so cheerio for now.

xx

Whiskers and Fur

Oh yes before I forget I thought I should share my new little venture. After many a request I have decided to do pet portraits. As pets dont usually sit still very long, I will have to work from a photograph. So it will be up to you to capture that lovely shot and mail it to me. It works best as a close up and of good quality to print. More whimsical ideas would be if your pet is looking up or has one paw out. Something different from the norm where I may add a butterfly or a bird. Here is an idea of what I mean, but bear in mind I have not quite finished the butterfly yet. This is my friends Ginette and Aidans little Tala. As I paint in oils, the painting will need to dry for a while. Just thought I would say this as some people may expect it the next day. I quite enjoy painting little furry things, I watch them come to life slowly on the canvas.

If you have any enquiries you can contact me on :

karenannburt@aol.com

Big Love xxxx

Tick Tock

Living in a small town can have its good points and bad points. The good points are hard not to miss, with their local shops and friendly faces. On the other hand underneath the surface lays a gossip sect! You might accidentally fall on your path outside your home but three days later its around the village you have been in a nasty car accident. haha . The tales spun can be truly magnificent in their own right. Another thing that seems to be a village thing is the way nobody says anything to your face. Or the jealousy and envy for those that seem to be doing well. I can really only put it down to their lack of experience in outside village life and not ever having witnessed different cultures as well as having nothing better to do. Its quite sad ignorance is still so prevalent in our society. I have to say not all are like this and I have come across some fantastic people. I am blessed to have such fantastic friends in my life. Its just a shame a few wreck it for all. Perhaps it is a global thing. Quite often opinions are formed without seeing the whole story, conversation...etc.. Imagine if you hadn't read the ending to 'Of Mice and Men' . Thank god these people are not running our judicial system or many a lamb would have been thrown to the slaughter. And we would all be walking about with knifes protruding from our backs! HMMMMM wonder if this will be printed and posted?

On another note, spring is finally around the corner. I did see a few ducks flying back from their escape to the warmth.. Perhaps something I should have done as well. It seems as though it has been a long winter this year. Especially with our snow!

I am about to finish off a painting I have been working on. I seem to be having trouble finding the time as of late. Things seem to be going faster and faster all the time. tick tock........ I feel as though I am the white rabbit and always late for that important date.

This year is the year of change. Lots of things will be happening. I cannot divulge anything as of yet but its all better and brighter. After all the world is your oyster and if you don't take the plunge and chase your dream yourself it will pass you by.

kxx

PLANET EARTH PLANET ART

AVAILABLE VERY SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!!!
---------------------------------------------------------------

PLANET EARTH PLANET ART


Turn a page: enter our world - We have one earth!
On 1st March, internationally acclaimed Mirca Art Group releases its second major art book, Planet Earth
Planet Art, in support of the environmental and social grassroots network Friends Of The Earth
International.



Ninety-five artists present their artwork as a voice raised to bring awareness of the urgent problems of the
imbalanced lifestyles and unsustainable environmental consumption we humans face, accompanied by a
personal statement which brings the clarity of the artist to these problems.
These artists come from such nations as the UK, USA, Saudi Arabia, Hungary, China, Brazil, Greece, Libya,
India, France, the Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden (and many others), and thus this book is truly a global
voice, with contributions from East and West, from the developed and developing worlds.
Delightfully presented in an elegantly designed coffee-table book format, this collection of contemporary
artforms ranges from the abstract to the photographic, the visionary to the spectacular, and is prefaced by
a wonderful poem (quoted above) entitled Make Art, Not War from Nnimmo Bassey, the Chair of Friends
Of The Earth International.



With a wonderful cover from Indian graphic artist Narasimha Gollapudi Murthy and edited as a
collaboration between Mirca Art Group and British visionary artist Bruce Rimell, this book is a must-have
for any art lovers wishing to experience the insights of artists addressing the greatest issue that mankind
faces today: the protection and sustainability of our Planet Earth and the biodiversity that dwells upon it.


Planet Earth Planet Art is available in three formats, all in 10x8in (25x20cm) landscape: Softcover,
Hardcover with Dust Jacket and Hardcover with Image Wraparound, from quality book publisher
blurb.com.
Purchase the book from: http://www.blurb.com/my/book/detail/1177175
For further information, please contact: Bruce Rimell via planetearthmircabook@live.co.uk
For information on the many other Mirca Art Group projects: www.mirca-art.com


Oh and by the way, I am honoured to have

My painting and words in it as well!

xx

snow snow snow

As the UK is in the grip of winter, I seem to have time to reflect upon things. If any of you have been watching the news , you will be all too aware of our plight. The rations of milk and panic buying just seem to be a knock on effect of the weather. Its all very exciting and one thing that I have noticed more than anything is the friendliness that has seemed to have taken over the British public. Watching Neighbours who normally don't even give so much of a nod go out of their way to help each other. Its very endearing!

I recently ran into a girl, well when I say girl I mean a 30 year old woman. She said to me she didn't like so and so..{another woman}. and when I asked why? The reason I got was when they were younger, 8 , this girl had pushed her off her bike. WHAT? So an act done years ago when you were a child, has pigeonholed this girl her whole life. I am reflecting upon this because such things have happened to me. I remember being younger and fighting with my brother, as siblings do. I was 10. This other girl had seen and preceded all through my teens to be horrible to me and I am sure to this day she would if she could. Bearing in mind she had brothers and did the same. I find it very difficult to understand such narrow mindedness and lack of understanding human nature. So a single event that can happen in an instant has forged peoples prospective with no room for change. This is just ludicrous. When an event such as a death or near death may be life altering for you, for others you will still remain what they have perceived. People are so quick to judge past actions when having Never experienced anything remotely the same themselves. I have learnt over the years not to listen to such judgments unless the judge has walked in my shoes. I have also learnt if those who feel they are righteous and judge the most aren't worth knowing and would rather NOT have them in my life.

Phew! That was a bit deep.

Back to the snow.

Well I know the British are not geared up for the snow, but seriously, this doesn't warrant stupidity. I am surprised at how many are attempting to drive and get out on the roads only to have others push them about every 5 minutes. Then hit the brakes, step of the gas and steer wildly. There is road signs that have been ploughed into and fences every block. The ice is thick and there is icicles hanging dangerously above peoples heads. I suppose the stupidest thing I have seen is the man in the high street using a large spade to scrape the ice off of his jag! The window and the body.


Well I have decided I am going to wander up to the High Street to see what is open and get a few bits and bobs.. Wish me luck!

kxx